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RESULTS OF OPERATING AND EXPANDING A COMPUTERIZED PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION SYSTEM

This is a technology update on a prototype optimum route passenger information system that was described in a paper presented at the 1991 PTRC Summer Annual Meeting (see IRRD 854998). The system has now been upgraded from a prototype to nine operational units, installed in seven Metro stations, one large department store and at CTM's offices in Madrid. This paper describes the results of the first full year of operation (July 94 through June 95). Results are evaluated from the perspective of the developer, the operator and the users. There is a use statistics module incorporation in the system. Data output from this module, along with survey data, have been analysed and evaluated. The information system is presently being expanded to include many new features. New on-street user and telephone operator interfaces have been developed according to DRIVE EuroBus/Popins recommendations. The system coverage has been expanded to include route, timetable and fare information for the entire Madrid region. The system now permits the incorporation of other information databases, e.g. a pharmacy information system that included the path finding algorithms to locate the nearest pharmacies that are open, along with information concerning available medicines and special services. A communication system is being established which permits centralised update, along with collection of use statistics. For the covering abstract see IRRD 876115.